[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 22 (Tuesday, February 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E123]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 12, 2013

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere 
admiration that I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and its 
2013 theme--``At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality.'' This year's 
theme reminds us of two very important landmark events in American 
history, the 150th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's issuing 
of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and the 50th anniversary of 
the Civil Rights March on Washington in 1963. This year we recognize 
the perseverance, sacrifice, and struggle of those who fought for the 
freedom and equality that has shaped our great nation.
   This year's theme,'' At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality,'' 
focuses on our nation's struggle for equality and civil rights, 
beginning with President Lincoln's issuance of the Emancipation 
Proclamation in 1863 and the abolishing of slavery. Some one hundred 
years later, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the Civil Rights March on 
Washington fighting for, amongst other ideals, meaningful civil rights 
legislation, including better employment opportunities and an end to 
segregation. These historic events have had an immense impact on our 
nation's fight for the equal rights of all human beings, regardless of 
race, gender, or religious, cultural, or social beliefs. Although there 
is still work to be done, we must take a moment to commend the many 
Americans who have, against all odds, strengthened our union, fought 
for our freedoms, and built a better nation. This month and always, it 
is important to remember the courage of inspirational leaders including 
President Lincoln, Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Thurgood Marshall, W.E.B. Du 
Bois, and the many others who have played such a critical role in 
changing the landscape of American society for the better.
   I would be remiss if I did not also pay tribute to one of Northwest 
Indiana's finest citizens, who passed away only a few weeks ago. As the 
representative of the First Congressional District of Indiana, I have 
had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Quentin Smith. Born in 1918, Mr. Smith 
saw firsthand the great injustices faced by African Americans 
throughout our country's history, as well as the courageous strides 
made toward equality and civil justice. A member of the heroic Tuskegee 
Airmen, Quentin's service in the 99th Fighter Squadron will forever be 
remembered in working to conquer America's racial divide. In a time 
when segregation existed not only in our communities but in the 
military as well, the Tuskegee Airmen are now rightfully remembered as 
one of the most successful units in our military's history, not only 
for their bravery and sacrifice in the air, but for the position they 
played in the progression of the military and American society as a 
whole. As a civilian, Mr. Smith continued to serve his community as an 
educator, counselor, and principal at the elementary, middle, and high 
school levels, as well as a professor at the collegiate level. Held in 
extraordinary regard in the educational community, Mr. Smith was able 
to utilize his vast experiences to positively influence generations to 
come.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me 
in celebrating Black History Month and honoring those who fought, and 
those who continue to fight, for civil rights. Let us also remember the 
selfless and brave Quentin Smith. We are forever indebted to him for 
his contributions toward freedom and equality, and Northwest Indiana is 
proud to have been his home.

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